Two North Tyneside shopping centres have joined hands with JD Sports to host a fun-packed football event for families to enjoy.

To mark the start of the 2016 UEFA European Championship (Euro 2016) and to celebrate Father’s Day, The Beacon and The Forum Shopping Centres are inviting fathers and children to dress up in their football kits, enjoy a session of football drills at the centres and help raise money for a good cause.

The centres have partnered with local football skills academy, Lucozade Powerleague Soccerdome in North Shields , to provide children with free coaching sessions, delivered by a professional football coach, on tips and tricks of the game.

In addition, a face painter will be on hand to help children take part in the Euro 2016 fun by getting their faces painted in celebration of their favourite teams and raising money for the One Great Day charity campaign which supports the Great Ormond Street children’s hospital and local charity The Children’s Foundation.

Nick Lambert, Centre Manager, The Forum Shopping Centre said: “Football is such a universal sport, and England fans are especially passionate when it comes to supporting their teams. We’re, therefore, delighted to give families in Wallsend a reason to celebrate not just the Euros, but Father’s Day with us as well. With our football skills coaching, Euro 2016 inspired face painting and special treats, everyone will have the chance to experience the spirit of the tournament.”

The event will take place on Saturday, June 11 to coincide with the first England match of Euro 2016, from 11am-1pm at The Forum Shopping Centre in Wallsend , and from 2pm-4pm at The Beacon Shopping Centre in North Shields.

David Menzies, Centre Manager, The Beacon Shopping Centre said: “We are really excited to be hosting the upcoming Father’s Day Football Fun event as it is a great opportunity to celebrate two great occasions that mean a lot to the local community. What makes this event more special is that we are also raising money for the One Great Day campaign that supports Great Ormond Street Hospital and local charity The Children’s Foundation. We look forward to seeing lots of families joining in, having a great time and helping a good cause.”

Free England flags and other football-themed giveaways will also be distributed to shoppers throughout the Euro 2016 inspired activity to encourage fans and create the fun atmosphere that is characteristic of this major football tournament. A grand prize, courtesy of JD Sports, is also up for grabs and could be won by the most active father-child duo on the day.